Diffuse Unilateral Subacute Neuroretinitis: A Case Report Documenting Transretinal Migration of Nematodes
Hassan Behboudi1, Yousef Alizadeh1, Maryam Dourandeesh1
1Eye Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, Amiralmomenin Hospital, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Guilan, Iran.
Journal of Current Ophthalmology
|November 18, 2024
Summary
Diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis (DUSN) involves nematode migration in the retina. Laser photocoagulation effectively treats early-stage DUSN, though some vision loss may persist due to retinal damage.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis (DUSN) is an uncommon inflammatory condition affecting the retina.
- Nematodes migrating within the retinal layers cause significant visual impairment.
Observation:
- Two cases of DUSN in northern Iran are presented.
- Serial optical coherence tomography (OCT) documented nematode migration from the subinternal limiting membrane to the subretinal space.
- Inflammatory and destructive retinal processes coincided with nematode migration.
Findings:
- Laser photocoagulation was an effective treatment for both patients.
- Partial recovery of outer retinal layers and improved visual acuity were observed post-treatment.
- Persistent atrophy in the retinal nerve fiber and ellipsoid layers was noted, correlating with suboptimal final visual acuity.
Implications:
- Early-stage DUSN can be successfully managed with laser photocoagulation.
- Transretinal migration of nematodes is a key feature of DUSN.
- Damage to both inner and outer retinal layers contributes to persistent visual deficits following DUSN.
